Radiant heat generated by soapstone is pleasant and also efficient. A Tulikivi masonry heater emits heat evenly over the whole room, remaining pleasantly warm for a long time, even after the fire has gone out.
This is how radiant heat differs favorably from the harsh convection heat of a traditional stove.
Because a Tulikivi masonry heater is not short-tempered and fiery, you can even lean against the side of it and rest your hand against the stone. A wood burning Tulikivi masonry heater brings out the nostalgic memories in many people - it’s hard to put the meaning into words.
The soft radiant heat of a Tulikivi masonry heater spreads evenly in the whole room and gently warms people and objects. Because you are heating with radiant heat, the room doesn’t reach extreme temperatures as it does with a wood stove, instead the air remains fresh and easy to breathe.
The convection heat of a traditional wood stove rises towards the ceiling and the heat is concentrated around the stove. The heat is not retained in anything, but escapes through the chimney.